On April 12, 2007, a Cessna 172M (registration N9685Q) operated by Aacit was involved in an aviation accident near Stockton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion leading to engine stoppage. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After encountering turbulence and strong winds that extended a 3-hour flight to 4 hours, an airplane experienced engine stoppage from fuel exhaustion. The pilot executed a forced landing short of the runway, resulting in nose gear collapse and firewall buckling.
Event Details
The airplane departed with both fuel tanks full. The pilot's typical route of flight requires approximately 3 hours. During the flight, the airplane encountered turbulence and strong winds, which increased the flight time to 4 hours. As the pilot lined up for a straight-in approach to the runway, the engine stopped due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot executed a forced landing short of the approach end of the runway. During the landing, the airplane collided with the ground and a fence, causing the nose gear to collapse and the engine firewall to buckle.
Investigation
The pilot stated that the airplane and engine had no mechanical malfunctions. An FAA inspector examined the airplane at the accident scene and confirmed that there was no fuel onboard.
What happened in the 12 Apr 2007 Cessna 172M accident near Stockton, CA?
After encountering turbulence and strong winds that extended a 3-hour flight to 4 hours, an airplane experienced engine stoppage from fuel exhaustion. The pilot executed a forced landing short of the runway, resulting in nose gear collapse and firewall buckling.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Apr 2007 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N9685Q, operated by Aacit, at Stockton, CA.
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